Key Honda Safety System Under Investigation For Causing Crashes
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has upped the severity of an investigation into Honda’s automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems.
The probe now includes an engineering analysis, the final step before a potential recall, after reports of crashes and injuries linked to the alleged defect. Over 290,000 vehicles in the U.S. may be affected by the issue.
The investigation covers the 2019–2022 Honda Insight and the 2019–2023 Honda Passport. The issue revolves around phantom braking—when the AEB system activates without an obstruction in the vehicle's path. This unprompted braking can increase the risk of collisions.
Honda has acknowledged 412 reports related to the defect. Some of the complaints suggest that dealership staff have dismissed these incidents as “normal AEB operation,” NHTSA argues otherwise. The agency has documented 106 incidents tied to the problem, including eight injuries and three crashes, some of which resulted in fires.
This isn’t the first time Honda’s AEB systems have come under scrutiny. Last year, NHTSA launched a separate engineering analysis of nearly 3 million Honda Accord and CR-V models (including their hybrid variants) from 2017–2022 for similar phantom braking concerns.
Honda owners of affected models should report any abnormal AEB activations to both the automaker and the safety agency during this time. In the meantime, Honda is expected to cooperate fully with the investigation.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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